Star Wars Art: Illustrations

The third in the series of "Star Wars Art" books, "Star Wars Art: Illustration" is a meticulous collection of over 150 plates of "Star Wars" art from book jackets, role-playing games, video game covers, Topps Trading Card art, "Star Wars" Insider magazine, as well as plenty of limited edition prints from Acme Archives, and one-of-a-kind works that have become collectibles. All the "Star Wars"-popular artists are here like Dave Dorman, Greg and Tim Hidebrandt, Ralph McQuarrie, Drew Struzan, and others. There's even some industry favorites in people like Randy Martinez whose humorous "Chewbacca Karaoke" is a hoot.

The lovely thing about this collection is that the newer (and lesser) films don't get a lot of show aside from Amidala who is clearly a fan-boy favorite. Most of the plates reflect characters from the original trilogy and bring the characters to life in ways that are unexpected and engrossing. Some plates are goofy and anachronistic, while others give the films a sweep and scope that brings out the story's majesty.

By far, the original "Star Wars" conceptual artist Ralph McQuarrie is still the guy to beat, and less than a year after his passing, he is lovingly represented here. Drew Struzan is also front and center and his work - wholly noticeable for its painstakingly accurate depiction of the characters - Is dazzling to view.

The book comes with a forward by Howard Roffman, President of Lucas Licensing and an introduction by art director, journalist, critic, author and editor Steven Heller. With over 41 artist biographies, this is a vastly informative book and just another way to relive the saga we love through a medium that gives it a poetry that it truly deserves.

A beautiful new coffee table book offers unique views of Star Wars and its characters by a multitude of contemporary artists. Some of their interpretations are as creative and daring as the ground-breaking films themselves.